which of the following is an example of a prepositional phrase

ATI TEAS 7

Practice English TEAS TEST

1. Which of the following is an example of a prepositional phrase?

A. After the game
B. Running fast
C. She sings
D. Can you help me?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'After the game.' A prepositional phrase consists of a preposition and its object, describing a relationship in time, location, or direction. In this case, 'After' is the preposition, and 'the game' is its object, making it a prepositional phrase. Choices B, C, and D do not contain prepositional phrases. Choice B, 'Running fast,' is a gerund phrase with an adverb modifying a verb. Choice C, 'She sings,' is a subject-verb sentence construction. Choice D, 'Can you help me?' is an interrogative sentence asking for assistance.

2. When a researcher submits a paper for publication in a scientific journal, the editors give it to other scientists to review. Which of the following options best uses grammar to combine the sentences above for clarity?

A. When a researcher submits a paper for publication in a scientific journal, the editors give it to other scientists to review.
B. The editors give it to other scientists after a researcher submits a paper for publication in a scientific journal, and they review it.
C. A researcher submits a paper for publication in a scientific journal, and then the scientists review the paper because the editors gave it to other scientists.
D. The scientists review the paper after the editors give it to them when a researcher submits a paper for publication in a scientific journal.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "When a researcher submits a paper for publication in a scientific journal, the editors give it to other scientists to review." This option provides a clear and concise way to combine the two sentences. It maintains the logical sequence of events: first, the researcher submits the paper, and then the editors pass it to other scientists for review. Option B introduces unnecessary complexity by separating the actions in a less fluid manner. Option C confuses the sequence of events by implying that the scientists review the paper because the editors already gave it to them, which is not the intended order of actions. Option D also disrupts the chronological order of events by placing the scientists' review before the editors give them the paper, making it less clear and accurate compared to the correct answer, option A.

3. Which of the following is a dependent clause?

A. Over the course of the day
B. After I finish my homework
C. I can't use my mother's car
D. Through the tunnel

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'After I finish my homework.' This is a dependent clause because it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on the rest of the sentence for context and meaning. Choice A, 'Over the course of the day,' is a prepositional phrase, not a dependent clause. Choice C, 'I can't use my mother's car,' is an independent clause as it can function as a complete sentence on its own. Choice D, 'Through the tunnel,' is also a prepositional phrase and not a dependent clause.

4. When proofreading your writing, what should be your primary focus?

A. Changing the wording to enhance originality.
B. Avoiding minor grammatical errors like typos.
C. Checking for clarity, consistency, and overall flow.
D. Avoiding replacing common words with thesaurus alternatives.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When proofreading your writing, the primary focus should be on checking for clarity, consistency, and overall flow. This involves ensuring that the content is clear, logical, and flows smoothly from one point to the next. While enhancing originality can be important, it is secondary to ensuring that the writing effectively communicates its message. Ignoring minor grammatical errors like typos can detract from the professionalism and impact of the writing. Replacing common words with thesaurus alternatives should be done sparingly and only when it enhances the clarity or impact of the text, rather than as a routine practice during proofreading.

5. Choose the sentence that demonstrates correct use of the semicolon.

A. I have a test tomorrow; I need to study.
B. I have a test; tomorrow I need to study.
C. I have a test tomorrow.
D. I have a test tomorrow; and I need to study.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct use of a semicolon is demonstrated in sentence A: 'I have a test tomorrow; I need to study.' Semicolons are used to connect closely related independent clauses. In this sentence, the semicolon correctly separates the two independent clauses 'I have a test tomorrow' and 'I need to study.' Choice B is incorrect because it separates the clauses improperly by using the semicolon after 'test' instead of after 'tomorrow.' Choice C is incorrect as it lacks a second independent clause to be connected using a semicolon. Choice D is incorrect as it inappropriately adds 'and' after the semicolon, which disrupts the correct use of the punctuation mark to link independent clauses.